App-based cab drivers have refused to call off their protest at Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, saying the agitation will end only after discussions with cab aggregator companies like Ola, Uber and Rapido.
Despite police warnings to vacate the premises, drivers continued picketing, disrupting both pick-up and drop services. Leaders of the Taxi Chalak Malak Kruti Samiti said the strike would only end after the aggregators agree to hold talks, even if no immediate resolution is reached.
The protest entered its seventh day on Tuesday, leaving passengers stranded. Many were forced to walk nearly a kilometre in the scorching heat as cabs were unavailable near the arrival gate, while the number of vehicles at the departure point remained minimal. The designated parking area for app-based taxis stayed largely empty.Union representatives met Rishi Reddy, who assured them that a meeting with aggregator representatives would be arranged via video conferencing in the presence of District Collector Kumar Ashirwad.
According to union leader Rishi Kuwar, the meeting is likely within a day or two, and the strike may be withdrawn after the discussions.Drivers are demanding a revision in fare structures and removal of bike taxis from aggregator platforms, alleging that cheaper two-wheeler rides are affecting their earnings.
They have also sought a separate meeting with the collector, urging authorities to bring bike taxis under RTO regulations or remove such services from app platforms.
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